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2015-16 community investment funding round announced

The latest community investment funding round has been completed, with over $140,000 to be distributed across the community.

Nelson City Council’s Community Investment Fund, previously known as the Community Assistance Fund, has been allocated by a new panel of community members, established following a review of the Community Assistance Policy.

The funding panel is made up of four community representatives and one Council staff member, and will distribute $300,000 annually, with up to $50,000 for small scale projects, to organisations with a focus on social development activities that support the well-being of the wider Nelson community.

“We have listened to the community and have narrowed the focus of this fund. Where previously the criteria included support for sports, arts and events, now there is a sole focus on supporting social development activities,” says Group Manager Community Services and Chair of the Panel, Chris Ward.

In this latest funding round, 12 agreements and 25 grants totalling $142,770, have been allocated to a wide range of not-for-profit organisations delivering social development services in Nelson.

The total amount applied for was $190,774, from a funds pool of $149,070. $96,220 was awarded to agreements and $46,550 in grants for smaller projects. This amount is on top of $150,930, which has already been allocated for this year, from previous funding rounds.

Mayor Rachel Reese says the decision to create the new panel shows Council’s commitment to working closely with the community.

“The public told us they wanted to see continued support for community groups through the community assistance fund. They wanted us to focus on social development. We listened.

“This new panel creates closer collaboration between staff, councillors and the community, and will ensure we are supporting the community in the best way possible,” she says.